As a New York City event planner, you know the beginning and middle of the event are important. You’ve spent the majority of your planning time on this. But what about the ending? It’s the last impression you give to your guests, and you want it to be a thoughtful one. How guests leave an event can shape their overall experience, and thoughtful exits are a key component in wrapping up your event. Ensure everyone leaves with positive memories of the entire event, from start to finish.
We explore some tips on how to send your guests off with style, no matter what type of event you’re hosting.
Personalized Experiences at Social Celebrations
Social events (think weddings, birthdays, anniversaries,) offer an opportunity for creativity and personal touches. These ideas help elevate the guest experience so that everyone feels appreciated and special.
Bring on the Fun with an Energized Photo Booth Session
Who doesn’t love a photo booth? Your guests will love the laughter and excitement it brings to every NYC social event. Photo booths are a great interactive experience that allows guests to let loose and capture memories in a way that feels personal and unique to the event.
Share Your Last Sentiments with an Interactive Farewell Wall or Guestbook
A farewell wall or guestbook celebrates the guest(s) of honor in a thoughtful way to end the event. Event attendees can leave personal messages, reflections about the event, or well wishes. Turn the final moments into a memorable experience that reflects the spirit of the celebration.
Take Home a Smiling Masterpiece with a Caricature Artist
Bring some extra fun to the party with the artistic and comedic touch of a caricature artist. Guests will love their humorous depictions, which usually bring some laughs as their features are often exaggerated. Plus, it will be a fun token to remember your event for years to come.
Say ‘Thank You’ with Personalized Gifts
Make your event guests feel extra appreciated by giving them thoughtful, personalized gifts. Think small, heartfelt tokens like homemade treats or keepsakes with the guest of honor’s initials. Or you could personalize a unique message that reflects the event. Adding a personal touch (of any kind) shows you’ve put care into selecting something meaningful. And it allows them to leave with a memorable keepsake from the event itself.
Fireworks or Light Show for a Showstopping Finale
You can't go wrong when you go out with a "bang." End the evening on an unforgettable note with a fireworks or light show that will undoubtedly impress even the toughest-to-please guests. This breathtaking display will leave everyone in awe and prompt them (almost immediately) to deliver a round of applause. It’s the perfect way to create a grand event finale!
Show Your Guest Appreciation at Corporate Events
Corporate events are typically more professional, so it's important to keep the exit thoughtful yet aligned with the event's goals and the company’s brand. Here are some fresh ideas for closing a corporate event with impact, ensuring guests leave with a positive, memorable impression.
Keep the Experience Alive with Digital Takeaways
Yes, the physical, branded event swag is always a good idea. Just don't forget to include a few digital takeaways, too. Maybe it's access to exclusive content - like a recording of your keynote speaker. Or maybe there's a webinar or eBook to download for free as a "thank you" for attending. These gifts, unlike the branded tees, will linger long after your NYC event's over.
Mix and Mingle with a Final Networking Lounge
Networking lounges, VIP-level or otherwise, are wildly popular among corporate events and conferences. They serve as that quiet reprieve where eventgoers can separate from the high-energy of the crowd to have one-on-one conversations. And usually, it's in these networking lounges that the big ideas, the strategic partnerships, and the best relationships are formed. But don't overlook the opportunity to use a "closing" networking lounge area as a way for guests to say their goodbyes and exchange business cards. Some may linger longer than others, but with comfortable seating and a few snacks, these hotspots will be great tools for attendees to connect before heading out.
Picture Perfect Ending with a Final Group Photo for Social Media Engagement
Organize a group photo at the conclusion of the event where all attendees can gather for a final shot. You can then create a live social media wall displaying posts and photos from the event with its own hashtag so guests can look at all the content after the event. It gives the event an ongoing, interactive element as people can engage with the content and share their own experiences.
Closing Video Projection for a Final Encore
You'll be hard-pressed to find any event that doesn't include video. Whether you're dialing in the projector for a memory lane tribute at a birthday party or you're setting up video photo booths for guests, events in motion are totally in. But don't forget to use video as a way to say farewell to all your corporate event or social event guests, too. Think a company achievement video or a pre-recorded "thank you for coming" video from the bride and groom. (We'll leave it up to you to decide if you want "Closing Time" to be the fond farewell soundtrack or not.)
A Thoughtful Exit Goes a Long Way
New York City event planners know that creating memorable experiences for your guests is what truly makes a celebration special. A thoughtful exit leaves everyone feeling appreciated and connected as they wrap up the event. Add those personal touches that create lasting impressions and meaningful connections. A unique and thoughtful exit will guarantee your event concludes on a high note.
Want more inspiration for your event planning business? Get your tickets now - October will be here before you know it. And it'll be time again for The Event Planner Expo. From event designs, ideas for landing clients, or meeting new event vendors, this is the one conference you can't miss. Get your VIP Education tickets so you don't miss the dynamic Speaker Series. And we'll see you at The Expo!
